As winter gets a hold of us, cold-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and runny nose, become more prevalent. But before you go towards your medicine cabinet, stop and assess whether you really need the medications. Unnecessary popping of pills is said to do more harm than good, more so if they haven’t been prescribed by a doctor. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Hemalata Arora, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, shed a detailed light on the use of cold medications and the side effects of taking them unnecessarily.
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What Is The Use Of Cold Medications?
Cold medications aim to alleviate symptoms like sore throat and congestion, often containing decongestants, pain relievers, or antihistamines for allergies, said Dr Arora, adding, “In the initial days with runny nose and fever, consider using paracetamol or occasional Allegra for one day, while nasal sprays can be helpful for a day or two.”
However, there is limited research on the effectiveness of Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications for coughs and colds.
A 2009 study published in the Official Publication of the College of Family Physicians of Canada found no significant improvement in cough or cold symptoms with OTC cough and cold medications, even for adults. In fact, several studies link them to adverse effects in children, including emergency room visits and even deaths.
These risks are especially concerning for children under 2 years old, the study noted further.
Should You Take Them For Mild Cold-Like Symptoms?
For brief, mild colds lasting 2–3 days, Dr Arora advised against the use of cold medications. Instead, he recommended managing the symptoms with rest, warm liquids, and hydration.
The doctor also warns against taking antibiotics for the common cold and other viral infections, as they only help in treating bacterial infections. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antimicrobial resistance is one of the 10 major global public health threats, responsible for an estimated 50 lakh deaths annually.
Antibiotic resistance occurs due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotic treatment, which in turn helps the bacteria or fungi develop immunity against the drugs that are designed to eliminate them.
Also Read: Intake Of Antibiotics: Expert Explains its Use and Misuse
Side Effects Of Taking Cold Medications Unnecessarily
Taking cold medicines unnecessarily, such as Allegra or other tablets, may lead to initial relief in decongesting and reducing runny nose and sneezing. However, prolonged use might result in side effects like nasal congestion, ear infections, and sinus issues, said Dr Arora.
In some cases, this can progress to bacterial infections, according to the doctor.
“Consider using nasal saline spray instead. This helps maintain open nasal passages, promoting easier clearance of the sinuses. Unlike some medications, nasal saline spray is less likely to lead to complications like rebound congestion and can be a more targeted and sustainable solution for nasal health,” he advised.
When Is The Right Time To Take Them?
If symptoms persist (even after home remedies), you may need to switch to cold medications under a doctor’s guidance. Dr Arora recommended consulting a healthcare professional for further guidance.
“Limit cold medicine use to essentials like paracetamol, and avoid using antibiotics unless prescribed for a specific bacterial infection,” he concluded.